Insights Library
Western Renewables Link – What Landowners Need to Know About the EES, Compensation, and Legal Rights
The Western Renewables Link (WRL) is a proposed 190km overhead high-voltage electricity transmission line that will carry renewable energy from Bulgana in western Victoria to Sydenham in Melbourne’s north-west.
The Environment Effects Statement (EES) for the WRL project is now on public exhibition, providing an opportunity for landowners and community members to review the project’s potential impacts and make formal submissions.
Best Hooper’s Property and Compulsory Acquisitions Team is currently assisting a number of landowners in their compensation negotiations with AusNet. Given our understanding of the Project, our experience advising on infrastructure acquisitions, and our expertise in town planning law, we are well positioned to guide landowners through the process and maximise their entitlements.
EES and independent inquiry process
The EES is a comprehensive assessment prepared under the Environment Effects Act 1978 (Vic) to assess the potential environmental, social, and economic impacts of the WRL project. It includes detailed studies and technical reports covering various aspects of the project.
The EES and the draft Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA) GC209 to the Northern Grampians, Pyrenees, Ballarat, Hepburn, Moorabool and Melton Planning Schemes are on public exhibition from 30 June 2025 for 40 business days, concluding on 22 August 2025. During this period, stakeholders can review the EES and draft PSA and make written submissions. Those making submissions may also request to be heard by the independent joint inquiry and advisory committee to be appointed by the Minister for Planning.
The joint Inquiry and Advisory Committee (IAC) will be tasked with advising the Minister for Planning on the environmental effects of the proposed Western Renewables Link Project. Specifically, the IAC will:
- review the EES draft PSA GC209, and public submissions;
- hold a public hearing to hear from the proponent and submitters who want to speak to their written submission; and
- provide advice to the Minister about the WRL project’s environmental effects.
Key Issues Addressed in the EES
The EES examines a range of potential impacts associated with the WRL project, including:
- Environmental Impacts – assessment of effects on flora and fauna, biodiversity, and ecosystems.
- Cultural Heritage – evaluation of potential impacts on Aboriginal cultural heritage sites and values.
- Land Use and Agriculture – analysis of how the project may affect agricultural activities and land use patterns.
- Visual and Landscape – consideration of the visual impact of transmission infrastructure on the landscape.
- Social and Economic – investigation into the social and economic implications for communities along the proposed route.
The EES also explores feasible alternatives to the proposed project design and alignment to avoid or mitigate adverse effects.
Land Acquisition and Compensation Process
Land required for the WRL project may be acquired through two primary mechanisms:
- By Agreement – A voluntary agreement between the landowner and AusNet Services, allowing the acquisition of an easement for the transmission line. This option provides certainty about compensation and payment timing if the project proceeds. It also allows for negotiated access arrangements during preliminary investigations and construction.
- Compulsory Acquisition – If a voluntary agreement cannot be reached, AusNet may proceed with compulsory acquisition under the Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986 (Vic). In this case, the easement is vested in AusNet prior to the landowner receiving a compensation offer. The voluntary hosting benefit is not available through this process.
Compensation assessments consider factors such as the market value of the land, the impact on the remaining property, and any legal or professional costs incurred by the landowner.
Payments available for affected landowners
AusNet has introduced a comprehensive suite of payments and compensation options for landowners affected by the WRL project. These measures aim to acknowledge the impact on landholders and neighboring communities, providing financial recognition and support. The measures include:
1. Option for Easement Compensation
Landowners whose properties are directly traversed by the proposed transmission line may enter into an Option for Easement agreement with AusNet. This legally binding agreement grants AusNet the right to acquire an easement over the property under agreed terms. Compensation under this option includes:
- Market Value Depreciation – Assessed by an independent valuer, this reflects the difference in property value before and after the easement, accounting for factors like severance and loss of special value.
- Disturbance Compensation – Additional payments for disruptions during and after construction, such as impacts on fencing, livestock, and crops.
- Professional Fees Reimbursement – AusNet will reimburse reasonable costs incurred by landholders for independent valuations, legal advice, and other professional services related to the agreement.
These compensation offers are provided to landholders in advance of project approval to allow time for consideration and negotiation.
2. Voluntary Hosting Benefit
In addition to the Option for Easement compensation, AusNet offers a Voluntary Hosting Benefit to landholders who agree to host transmission infrastructure on their property. This benefit is separate from the easement compensation and is designed to acknowledge the role of landholders in facilitating the project.
3. Near Neighbour Benefit Program
Recognising that neighbouring landholders may also experience impacts, AusNet has recently established the Near Neighbour Benefit Program. Under this program landholders with a residence within one kilometre of the proposed easement may be eligible for a one-off payment of $20,000 to $40,000, depending on proximity.
These payments are intended to provide financial recognition to those living near the infrastructure, acknowledging their role in supporting the delivery of critical infrastructure.
4. Landholder Participation Fee
To facilitate property assessments and planning, AusNet offers a Landholder Participation Fee. Landholders who complete the Property Specific Details Form and sign the Land Access Consent may receive a payment of $10,000 (excluding GST). This fee is intended compensates landholders for their time and cooperation during the project’s planning phase.
5. Survey Access Payments
For landholders who allow AusNet to conduct surveys on their property, a payment of up to $2,000 per day is available but is capped at $50,000 per property.
This is intended to compensates landholders for extended survey activities on their land.
6. State Government Annual Easement Payments
Separately from AusNet’s offerings, the Victorian Government has announced an annual payment of $8,000 per kilometre of new transmission easement hosted, on land for a period of 25 years.
This State initiative is said to provide long-term financial support to landholders hosting transmission infrastructure.
How Best Hooper Lawyers Can Assist Affected Landowners
At Best Hooper, we specialise in planning and property law, offering comprehensive support to landowners impacted by the WRL project. We can assist you in the following matters
- EES submissions – We can assist you in preparing and lodging detailed submissions to the EES, ensuring your concerns are effectively communicated.
- Compensation negotiations – Our team can guide you through the compensation process, whether through an Option for Easement or compulsory acquisition, to ensure you receive fair and adequate compensation.
- Inquiry and Advisory Committee representation – If you choose to be heard at the independent inquiry and advisory committee, we can represent you, presenting your case and advocating on your behalf.
- Legal advice – We provide expert legal advice on your rights and obligations, helping you navigate the complexities of the planning and acquisition processes.
If your property is affected by the WRL project, feel free to contact Best Hooper Lawyers for tailored legal assistance to protect your interests and rights.
